When “Not Yet” Is the Right Answer

Have you ever been so close to making a big decision that you just needed someone to tell you to pause?

Last week, I sat with a young couple in Northeast Portland who had fallen in love with a home that checked most of their boxes. It was charming, in a great school district, and close to their favorite coffee shop. The catch? The house had a handful of inspection red flags that weren’t small fixes—structural issues, water intrusion, and a roof that was past its prime. Their hearts said “yes,” but their stomachs weren’t sure.

We walked through the report together, line by line. I could see the excitement in their eyes fading into worry, and I knew the question they were afraid to ask: “Are we making a mistake?” It would have been easy for me to encourage them to push forward. After all, my paycheck comes when deals close. But that’s not why I’m in this business.

So, I told them what I’d want someone to tell me: “Not yet. Let’s wait for the right one.” The relief on their faces said everything. Instead of rushing into a home that would drain their savings and test their patience, they walked away with clarity and trust.

That moment reminded me that real estate isn’t about transactions—it’s about timing, trust, and protecting people’s futures. Portland real estate can move fast, and emotions run high, but saying “not yet” can save years of regret later.

Patience isn’t always easy, but it’s powerful. And it’s one of the reasons clients trust us to guide them—not just to a home, but to the right home.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in the Portland area, we’d love to be part of your story.